Bruyere Gardens - Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bruyere Gardens?
Bruyere Gardens is a 63 unit, federally funded HUD-202 PRAC affordable housing development for independent seniors 62 years of age and older located on the campus of D’Youville Senior Care, 975 Varnum Avenue, Lowell, MA.
What does HUD-202 PRAC Stand for?
HUD stands for the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Section 202 is a loan program to develop housing for the elderly. Tenant rental subsidies are provided through Project Rental Assistance Contracts referred to as (PRAC).
Why the Name Bruyere Gardens?
D’Youville Senior Care, Inc. was established by the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa in 1960 to meet the needs of an increasing frail and elderly population in Lowell. Elisabeth Bruyere, for which Bruyere Gardens is named, established the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa, popularly known as The Grey Nuns of the Cross, in 1845. For over 125 years, the Sisters have served the greater Lowell community by providing a high standard of excellence in nursing care and education.
What are the Income Qualifications?
As of May 2010 the mandated HUD income guidelines for the Lowell area cannot exceed:
- $31,050 for one person
- $35,450 for two people
What is a Unit Like?
- Approximately 540 square feet of living space.
- Living room/Dining room combination.
- One bedroom (please note: if two people are sharing a unit, the living room cannot be utilized as a bedroom).
- Kitchen with refrigerator stove and microwave.
- Full bathroom with walk-in shower and grab bars.
- Ample closet space.
- Emergency call system.
- Secured entrance.
- Cable and telephone ready.
- Rent includes all utilities (heat, hot water, electricity and central air conditioning).
How Much Will I Pay For Rent?
30% of the family’s monthly adjusted income.
Are Utilities Included In My Rent?
Yes, except for your cable, internet and telephone bills.
Can I Regulate My Own Heat?
You can regulate your own heat in the winter and central air in the summer.
How Many People Can Live In a Unit?
A maximum of (2) people.
What Facilities Does Bruyere Gardens Have?
- Ample community/common areas with party kitchens for special events.
- Community living-rooms, one with a 42” plasma TV/DVD/VCR.
- Outdoor courtyard areas.
- Coin operated laundry facilities.
- Arts and crafts room.
- Library areas one with full computer set-up.
- D’Youville Senior Care Employee Cafeteria is open Monday-Friday and tenants are welcome to go over and buy a hot breakfast or lunch.
- On-site chapel located at D’Youville Senior Care.
- Ample parking.
- Smoke free facility.
What Types of Services Are Offered?
The following services are available:
- Emergency Call System.
- Hot lunch program held (2) days per week.
- Trash removal and trash chute system.
- Visiting hairdresser.
- Monthly Visiting Nurse Wellness Clinic.
- Bruyere Gardens is located on the Lowell Public Transit System.
- D’Youville Senior Care, Inc. has an Adult Day Health Center on site for qualifying participants.
Are Pets Allowed?
(1) Common household pet is allowed such as a dog (weight limit 30lbs.), a cat, bird, rodent (including a rabbit), fish or turtle that is traditionally kept in the home for pleasure. Does not include reptiles (except turtles). Mandatory rules will apply.
When Did Bruyere Gardens Open?
- Phase I consisting of (22) units opened October 2006.
- Phase II consisting of (41) units opened in May 2009.
How Do I Apply?
Applications are available at the following locations:
- Bruyere Gardens,
975 Varnum Avenue,
Lowell, MA. - D’Youville Senior Care, Inc.,
981 Varnum Avenue,
Lowell, MA. - Lowell Housing Authority,
285 Salem Street,
Lowell, MA. - Chelmsford Housing Authority,
10 Wilson Street,
Chelmsford, MA.
Who Do I Return the Application To?
Bruyere Gardens
975 Varnum Avenue
Lowell, MA 01854
ATTN: Director of Independent Living
Who Can I Call with Questions?
Please contact:
Paula Eldridge-Yeiter, Director of Independent Living
Bruyere Gardens - #978-569-1023.